Question

which of these statements accurately describes joseph stalin? choose two answers.
□ he was less brutal than previous russian leaders.
□ he overthrew lenin to become leader of the ussr.
□ he cut steel production to improve the economy.
□ he restricted citizens personal rights and freedoms.
□ he held absolute power as a totalitarian dictator.

Explanation:

• "He was less brutal than previous Russian leaders" is incorrect as Stalin was known for his brutality, including purges and oppressive policies.
• "He overthrew Lenin to become leader of the USSR" is incorrect; Stalin rose to power after Lenin's death through political maneuvering, not overthrowing Lenin.
• "He cut steel production to improve the economy" is incorrect; Stalin's Five - Year Plans focused on increasing industrial production, including steel.
• "He restricted citizens' personal rights and freedoms" is correct. Under Stalin's rule, there was strict censorship, limited freedom of speech, and a surveillance state that restricted personal liberties.
• "He held absolute power as a totalitarian dictator" is correct. Stalin centralized power in his hands, controlled all aspects of Soviet life (political, economic, social), and ruled as a totalitarian dictator.

Answer:

D. He restricted citizens' personal rights and freedoms.
E. He held absolute power as a totalitarian dictator.